Kenneth "Kenny" Louis Kowalke

Kenneth Louis Kowalke was born Jan. 18, 1946 in Milbank, S.D. to William and Ruth (Wright) Kowalke. The family moved to Nevis in 1950 when he was 4 years old.

He attended Nevis public school and graduated in 1964. Kenny enlisted in the Army and volunteered for extra duty in Vietnam. Upon honorable discharge he went to work a few years on the ore boats sailing on all five Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence seaway.

Kenny then went to work for Onan in Fridley, until his early retirement in 1998. After retirement Kenny bought land near Nimrod and with help, planned and built his own house. He loved the solitary life and was dedicated to his faith. Kenny loved visiting the siblings and their families.

Kenny's hobbies included beer making, gardening, reading on the Civil War, and keeping up with current events. Kenny was a member of the NRA and had a vast knowledge of firearms.

Kenny is survived by his siblings, Judith (Arthur) Davis of Bismarck, N.D., Norris (Elizabeth) Kowalke of Akeley, Joel (Nancy) Kowalke of Nevis and Mary (Henry) Buerkley of St. Francis; 22 nieces and nephews; and numerous great-nieces and nephews.

Kenny is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Clarence; nieces, Dynette and Katelyn.